Magnificent Mamanuca Islands

All celebrities have starred in something cringeworthy in their careers, and while Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands are often known for being the setting for Survivor, they also starred alongside Tom Hanks in Cast Away – where for the majority of the film they were easily the most visually appealing character.

But we guarantee you won’t have to resort to humanising a bloody volleyball for company on these cherry islands, which are only a short float from Nadi city centre and the beautiful resorts of Outrigger. For a day trip from Mamanuca Islands, visit the white sands of Bounty Island or the smaller Yasawa Islands, or make the journey to Castaway Island. Resist the urge to snap a picture with a Fed Ex package here – ironically, this is not the setting of the movie.

Mamanuca Islands’s Top 10

10.Plantation Cove You’d be hard pressed to find a better spot to learn to dive.

5. Scenic Flights Via helicopter you can see where the celebs hang out and get a look at the uninhabited islands.

9. Parasail the Beach The views are incredible (if you can manage to keep your eyes open).

4.Fishing It’s done with rods, not spears, but is still a great way to see some hidden parts of the islands.

8. Cloudbreak Catch a set at one of the most popular and famous surfing spots in Fiji.

3. Sunset Beach Another beauty, this is a popular site for snorkelling as well as watching the sunset.

7.Dolphin Safari Leaving from most major islands as the sun rises. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some turtles, too.

2. South Beach This amazing beach on Mana Island is a sight for sore eyes, although you’ll still probably want to wear sunglasses.

6. Malololailai Island This is the place to head for shopping and, if you need it, a slight return to civilisation.

The Hindu Community celebrates Thaipusam in January by jabbing hooks through their faces and backs. Probably best just to watch, then…

The Mamanuca Islands play host to the Rip Curl Surfing Championships in January. Beach bodies abound.

When April rolls around, the Auckland to Musket Cove Yacht Rally sails in. Give them a warm welcome – they’ve come all the way from New Zealand.

July brings with it the Bula Festival.Cue parades, performances, food stalls and, most importantly, parties.

New Year is a big celebration all across Fiji, with plenty of opportunities to get just as disorderly as you would back home.

When To Go

The weather is warm and sunny, with winter often just a few degrees cooler than summer.

Winter is still warm, but not as unpleasantly humid as the summer months.

In summer, there is a higher chance of tropical rain. However, this often provides welcome relief from the sticky heat.

Getting Around

It’s easy to catch a taxi in Nadi, but make sure it’s a registered one ordered by your hotel. Unscrupulous locals will gladly rip you off if you look like an easy target.

If you’re island hopping, everything you need is usually within walkingdistance.

Boats will get you from island to island if you don’t fancy forking out for a helicopter. All transport options are available from hotels.

General Information

Fiji is more than just a postcard paradise incarnate. While the seductive scenery is the principal lure for international visitors who yearn for primo beach time, consider that the country is one of the most eclectic in the South Pacific.

Once the minority, the native population of Fiji now comprises a good half of island inhabitants. However, Indian, Chinese and European influence, for better or for worse, unite with the Melanesian, Micronesian and Polynesian heritage of the country to form one funky and tasty stew. Although a 2006 military coup gave the tourism industry some bad press, the fact of the matter is that conditions are no worse now for visitors from abroad in popular resort areas than prior to the revolt.

Attractions

One supreme example of the incessant appeal Fiji presents to tourists is the archipelago known as Mamanuca. The network of volcanic islands offers some of the most picturesque spots in the entire South Pacific, let alone Fiji. At 20 islands strong, the tight collection features 7 that disappear under the Pacific Ocean at high tide.

Most visitors to the Mamanuca Islands will enter via Nadi International Airport. As such, attractions in the popular Fiji town of Nadi, from the Sri Siva Subramaniya Hindu Temple, to the Waqadra Botanical Gardens and Garden of the Sleeping Giant, may entice some to stay for a day.

Within the Mamanuca Islands proper, the main attractions revolve around the natural environment and the recreational pursuits they proffer. Pristine coral reefs reveal a kaleidoscope of aquatic wildlife to avid snorkelers and scuba divers.

Luxury catamarans provide those who prefer to lay back a chance to observe the spectacular scenery in style. Rides are available from most resorts on the islands.

Beachcomber Island is a popular day-trip for lunch, water sports and lush beachfront leisure. With a reputation as a backpacker paradise, the island offers nightlife entertainment more suitable for the college set.

Events

The main event on the Mamanuca Islands is rest and relaxation. Most festivals in Fiji celebrate national and spiritual holidays and occur in the capital of Suva.
Recreational enthusiasts can of course, choose from a vast array of options. Hotel tour operators can arrange for coral reef excursions, treks into the interior, with requisite peeks at endemic fauna and flora, as well as more adventurous trips to proximate islands.

Most of the action in Mamanuca takes place on Beachcomber Island. A notorious party island, Beachcomber heats up after dusk. For seclusion and a more tranquil brand of fun, Matamanoa Island offers beachfront huts or luxury hotel rooms.

Climate

Other than the odd cyclone between the months of November and April, in addition to more intense humidity, the Mamanuca Islands have ideal weather. As is the case with Fiji in general, temperatures stay above 20&deg;C and below 32&deg;C for most of the year.

Hotels in Mamanuca

Recommended hotels

Satisfying all your desires and attending to every little detail, the adults-only Tokoriki Island Resort makes for an ideal retreat for travellers in this side of Fiji. GeneralGuests travelling on... More

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good place but terrible ending

Stay there during Xmas time 2014, nice island and happy stay untill the last minute. When we checked out, we found they charged us nearly $500 fiji dollar for xmas dinner. We clearly remember the...

Experience the magic of Fiji with all its tropical charm and beauty and discover its friendly people, whose nurturing qualities makes the most gracious of hosts at the Mana Island Resort & Spa can... More

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Perfect island getaway

Part of the North side of the resort is undergoing renovation but the island is a perfect getaway place for family. Lots of water activities and water is crystal clear. No free wifi on the island.

Set in the beautiful Mamanuca Islands, the Matamanoa Island Resort is an ideal place to enjoy your relaxing holiday. GeneralAt free time, you can swim in the fresh water pool or in the beautiful... More

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home feeling island

the staff there are really friendly and welcoming. the band, the captain, activity staff...beautiful sunrise and sunset, water and glowing coral!!
Fun snorkelling and fishing experience!! Handline...

Enjoy a private vacation on Tokoriki Island and retreat to the beachfront accommodations at Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji. This posh resort also features spacious banquet spaces and... More

Vacationers looking for a tranquil retreat on a beachside accommodation in this part of Beachcomber Island can find convenient base at Beachcomber Island Resort Fiji. Outdoor enthusiasts can pamper... More

Experience the comfortable accommodation blended with a warm hospitality and unsurpassed service at the Castaway Island Resort Castaway Island. GeneralAt leisure, you can have a bracing dip in the... More

Great Trip

Prices reflect the lowest "base rate" found over the next 30 days. Rates are subject to change and may not include taxes and fees, hotel service charges, extra person charges, or incidentals, such as room service. Converted rates are provided for your convenience. They are based on today's exchange rate, but the hotel will charge you in the local currency. Taxes may be payable in addition.